On April 23, 2025, Mr. Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, a Member of Parliament and leader of the People's Party, expressed concerns regarding the accessibility of state welfare for Thai citizens. He emphasized that the government must sincerely address the welfare needs of the people, as it is a significant expectation from the public. "The people want clarity from the state regarding national development, and the government should provide it," Mr. Natthaphong stated.
During his remarks, he noted that out of 44 MPs from the people's sector, only 25 were sent to the House of Representatives, highlighting a pressing need for greater representation. Furthermore, Mr. Natthaphong acknowledged the complexity of the welfare situation, admitting that he might not be able to answer all questions clearly since the responsibility lies with other ministers.
He also raised concerns about ensuring that citizens are not left behind in state projects, asking if there would be measures to integrate Thai citizens into the welfare system and provide assistance for their living conditions. "The people might not have a way or might not be able to access the system," he remarked, underlining the importance of making welfare accessible.
In a separate yet related development, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has launched the 'Modern Public Administration' project to enhance public participation in the digital age. This initiative aims to amend the Bangkok Act of 2528 B.E., which has not been updated for over 40 years. The project seeks to modernize the governance framework of the capital to better meet the needs of its residents.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has implemented a digital platform through the website 2528.bangkok.go.th, enabling citizens to voice their opinions on the proposed amendments. This channel opened on April 17, 2025, and is expected to attract over 10,000 participants by its closing date on May 18, 2025. Mr. Natthaphong's comments resonate with this initiative, as they both emphasize the necessity of transparency and public engagement in governance.
Additionally, the Bangkok administration is organizing a series of board game events aimed at educating the public about city management and the laws governing it. These events will be held at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) on April 26, May 3, and May 10, 2025. Participants will engage in fun, interactive scenarios that simulate urban governance, allowing them to understand the limitations of existing laws while expressing their views in a relaxed environment.
The 'Modern Public Administration' project is not only about updating legislation but also about ensuring that the voices of Bangkok's residents are heard in the decision-making process. This initiative reflects the city's vision of becoming a more responsive metropolis, capable of addressing the challenges faced by its diverse population.
Mr. Natthaphong's concerns about the welfare system and the need for clarity from the government echo the sentiments of many citizens who feel disconnected from state resources. He stressed that, "The most important thing is that the people want to see the stability of the government in addressing the country's problems," urging the Prime Minister to provide clearer direction.
In response to questions about potential political maneuvers, Mr. Natthaphong dismissed rumors regarding the possible replacement of the Bhumjaithai Party with the People's Party in the government coalition. He stated, "This is not likely to happen; I have consistently maintained that the People's Party will not join the government in this House." He clarified that discussions about forming a government coalition with any parties, including Pheu Thai, have not yet occurred.
As the political landscape evolves, Mr. Natthaphong reiterated the People's Party's commitment to acting as a proactive opposition, focused on pushing for legislation that serves the best interests of the public. He emphasized that the party is not currently negotiating alliances but will clarify its political stance closer to the next election.
Mr. Natthaphong's emphasis on the importance of government stability and public welfare aligns with the broader goals of the 'Modern Public Administration' project. Both initiatives highlight the need for transparency and citizen engagement in governance, which are crucial for addressing the pressing issues faced by the population.
In conclusion, as Thailand navigates its political landscape and seeks to modernize its governance structures, the voices of its citizens must remain at the forefront. Initiatives like the 'Modern Public Administration' project and the calls for improved welfare access reflect a growing demand for accountability and responsiveness from the government. With these developments, it is clear that the future of governance in Bangkok and beyond will depend heavily on the active participation of its citizens.
